The Southern Jewish Historical Society (SJHS) seeks a temporary, part-time associate managing editor (ME) of the society’s annual, peer-reviewed journal, Southern Jewish History (SJH). With the guidance of the current managing editor and the editor, the expectation is that the individual will be able to transition into the position of managing editor by the second or third year. The ME works under the editor and defers to the editor for final decisions. The ME and associate ME are appointed by the SJHS Board of Trustees and remain in their positions at the pleasure of the Board.
The ME receives manuscripts from the editor once the editor has accepted them for publication. The ME then reviews the manuscripts for factual accuracy, and for style and format in conformity to SJHS guidelines and the current Chicago Manual of Style. The ME undertakes copyediting and other changes in consultation with the editor and authors. All materials within the individual journal issue and from issue to issue should be stylistically consistent. The ME maintains and keeps current the journal stylebook. The ME works with authors and outside sources to secure illustrations and appropriate copyright permission. Among duties as the business manager, the ME receives and processes orders and deliveries of the journal, works closely with the society treasurer, works with the society webmaster to update the journal materials on the society web site, and maintains the journal inventory.
Initial duties of the associate managing editor include styling and copyediting articles that have been accepted by the editor, working directly with authors during the copyediting process and various stages of proof, and assisting authors and outside sources in obtaining photos, as well as designing pages in MS Word and preparing proof in PDF format.
The position calls for a hard-working, detail- and fact-oriented individual, capable of scheduling and meeting production deadlines, interested in working with a variety of individuals in a cordial, professional, and positive fashion. Experience in publishing, page design, copyediting, and/or handling proof is preferred. The candidate should have a basic knowledge of sources and resources related to the Jewish experience in America and the South. Southern Jewish History is published each fall. It is a black and white publication, not exceeding 288 pages. Final proof has to be in the hands of the printer before Labor Day, with journals ready for bulk mailing in time to be received by members before the annual fall conference.
The position of associate managing editor is an opportunity for an individual to assume increased responsibilities over a short period of time as the current managing editor transitions into retirement.
Compensation for the position will change as the responsibilities of the associate managing editor grow. The range for the two to three year period will be from $2500 (Year 1) to $4,250 (Year 2 or 3). The time commitment varies based on the production schedule, with substantial obligations during the spring or summer months preceding the journal’s release.
Interested candidates should submit their application electronically (preferably as a pdf file), with the following information:
(a) a cover letter that addresses the individual’s relevant interests, experience and skills for the position;
(b) a current resume;
(c) names of three possible references, with relevant contact information; referees should be able to comment specifically on the capacities of the individual applicant for editing and working with historically-based publications;
(d) a sample of the applicant’s work that demonstrates ability in copyediting and/or page design.
For further information, contact Phyllis Leffler, Chair of the Search Committee, at pleffler@virginia.edu.